Chuck Zimmerman of Hilton, Monroe County, broke the record for the largest longnose gar caught in New York State, according to an announcement by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. The previous record was set in 2018, but Zimmerman’s catch at Butterfield Lake in Jefferson County on June 21, 2024, weighed in at an impressive 15 pounds, 14 ounces — 1 pound, 4 ounces larger than the previous record. Mahar congratulated Zimmerman on his achievement and encouraged other anglers to take advantage of New York’s plentiful fishing opportunities in the hopes of breaking records themselves.
The longnose gar is a unique fish with a long, thin nose and razor-sharp teeth, classified as living dinosaurs on an evolutionary scale by the DEC. These ancient fish date back to the Cretaceous Period, which began 145 million years ago and ended 66 million years ago. In New York, they are commonly found in the St. Lawrence River, Niagara River, Lake Champlain, and eastern Lake Ontario, typically swimming in shallow, weedy areas close to the water’s surface. The DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program tracks state record fish catches, like Zimmerman’s, and participants must submit entry forms within 30 days of the catch, meet qualifying requirements, and adhere to fishing regulations.
New York’s diverse waterways, from the Hudson River to Lake George, provide anglers with world-class fishing opportunities and strong fish populations. Mahar emphasized the importance of celebrating impressive catches like Zimmerman’s, highlighting the state’s dedication to promoting fishing as a recreational activity for individuals of all skill levels. By encouraging anglers to explore different fishing spots within the state, Mahar hopes that more records can be broken, and anglers can achieve Angler Achievement Awards when they cast their lines.
Chuck Zimmerman’s record-breaking catch of the largest longnose gar in New York State is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the state’s rich fishing resources. The DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program recognizes outstanding catches and tracks state record fish, inspiring other anglers to strive for similar accomplishments. With the ancient longnose gar as a prized catch for Zimmerman, anglers across New York are encouraged to explore the state’s waterways and take advantage of the diverse fishing opportunities available, from Lake Champlain to Chautauqua Lake.
The longnose gar’s distinctive appearance and prehistoric origins make it a fascinating species to observe in New York’s waters, where it can be found in various locations like the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. These fish, known for their needle-like teeth and long bodies, offer anglers a unique challenge when caught, as demonstrated by Zimmerman’s record-breaking achievement. As anglers engage in the thrill of fishing on New York’s waterways, they have the opportunity to encounter exceptional species like the longnose gar and potentially set new records that contribute to the state’s vibrant fishing culture.
Chuck Zimmerman’s successful catch of the largest longnose gar in New York State serves as a reminder of the abundance of fishing opportunities available to anglers in the region. With the state’s commitment to conservation and promotion of recreational fishing, anglers like Zimmerman are encouraged to explore different waterways and pursue record-breaking catches. The DEC’s Angler Achievement Awards Program celebrates outstanding achievements in fishing and encourages anglers to participate in the challenge of catching unique species like the longnose gar. By continuing to support and recognize anglers’ accomplishments, New York State maintains its reputation as a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.
